The Natural Beauty of Northern California

Northern California's Natural Beauty

Northern California is well known for it's stunning coastline, towering redwood forests, and pristine mountain rivers. California's northern coast is a world-class vacation destination, and with good reason. Have a look at some of Norcal's most scenic vacation spots:

Redwood Forests

Humboldt County's redwood forests are known the world over for their incredible natural beauty, unbelievably tall redwood trees, and the unique climate that makes this one of the only places on the planet where redwoods thrive.

Drive north from San Francisco on California's Highway 101 and you'll have the opportunity to visit the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic drive accessible from 101 that will leave you breathless as you travel beneath towering redwood trees and enjoy historical stops along the way.

Stunning Beaches

There are so many beaches on Humboldt County's coast, with favorites being Moonstone Beach for its awesome beauty and accessibility, Clam Beach which is close enough to the airport that travelers frequently visit on their way in and out of town, and Luffenholtz Beach which has impressive views of rock formations jutting out of the ocean just off the coast.

Humboldt County beaches aren't necessarily very hot, in fact the wind and fog coming off the Pacific Ocean can be a bit chilly at times, but the sheer beauty and serenity available at these beaches can't be found in any other place in North America.

Smith River

Actually in Del Norte county, the Smith River is cold and, in many places, fast moving and somewhat deep for a mountain river. It does not have a single dam anywhere on its entire length, and is considered "one of the crown jewels of the National Wild and Scenic River program."

Mad River

Incredible mountain waters offer lots of activities like class III-IV whitewater rafting and kayaking, as well as fishing and camping. The Mad River also inspired some very good beer!

Eel River

Another Wild and Scenic river, the Eel drains the third largest watershed in the state of California, and flows northwest parallel to the Pacific coast. Lots of fishing and kayaking here, and there are some great family camping spots at Richardson Grove State Park, deep in Humboldt County's redwood forest, but just off Highway 101 so it's easy to travel to.

Other Rivers in Northern California

There are just too many to list here, but fortunately it's already been done for us! Just follow the links below if you want to read more on Humboldt County's incredible river system!